"This latest revelation suggests Mr
Byers either misled parliament, the press and the public, or that he has no grip
on his department.

"Either way he must now come to the House of Commons and answer allegations
that he misled MPs and spell out the cost of the compensation package offered to
Mr Sixsmith."

While Mr Tyler said: "Clearly, if
Stephen Byers misled the House of Commons - even if it was by mistake - he
should be explaining and apologising to MPs first, not simply admitting the
mistake to the press."

The transport secretary should clear up the matter by making a Commons statement, Mr Tyler said.